Capturing the Triumph of Ukraine’s Oleksii Novikov at the 2020 World’s Strongest Man
At just 24 years old, Ukraine’s Oleksii Novikov etched his name in the annals of strongman history, emerging victorious at the 2020 World’s Strongest Man competition. This remarkable achievement has left the strongman community in awe, as the young phenom overcame a field of seasoned competitors to claim the coveted title.
Heading into the event, Novikov was not widely considered a favorite, having made only one previous appearance at the prestigious WSM contest. However, the young Ukrainian defied the odds, dominating the competition and solidifying his status as a rising star in the world of strongman sports.
“It’s unbelievable. I’m so happy, I can’t explain it. It’s my dream come true,” Novikov expressed with pure elation. “I made history and for me it’s unbelievable. In my country it’s very important because the last time this title was in Ukraine, it was 2004, with Vasyl Virastyuk. Now it’s my title.”
Novikov’s triumph was punctuated by a remarkable performance during the first day of the finals, where he set a new world record in the 18-inch partial deadlift, successfully lifting an astonishing 537.5kg (1185lb). Although the record-breaking feat was not initially part of his plans, Novikov embraced the opportunity and showcased his immense strength.
“I was sure I would be top three, but I wasn’t sure about the record,” Novikov explained. “I didn’t know about the world record, but once I did it I knew I could do more…ten kilos or maybe more. I wanted to do a little more. Five or ten kilos, not a lot.”
Throughout the competition, Novikov’s dominance was undeniable, as he won three events and secured top-three finishes in four additional disciplines. While the 18-inch deadlift proved to be his most comfortable event, the young strongman acknowledged the difficulties he faced in other challenges, particularly the Keg Toss and the Stones.
“The deadlift was the easiest event for me. I felt with this event I was very comfortable because it went good for me once and I can do more than the world record,” Novikov said. “I was worried about the Keg Toss because I have a problem on the top. No problems in the power, but a problem getting it over the top. That was number one, but second was maybe the Stones because it’s so high for me. I’m really short for strongman and it’s a hard one for me but I took third place in Stones, it was a great position for me.”
With his impressive victory, Oleksii Novikov has cemented his place among the elite in the strongman community. At just 24 years old, the Ukrainian phenom has a bright future ahead, and his triumph at the 2020 World’s Strongest Man has undoubtedly inspired a new generation of strongman enthusiasts.
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